transcript-polisher

Transcript Polisher

Transform raw podcast or interview transcripts into polished, professional documents that maintain authentic voice while dramatically improving readability.

Purpose

Raw transcripts from automated services are often unreadable - filled with filler words, incomplete sentences, and poor formatting. This skill cleans them up while preserving what was actually said.

Core Philosophy: Balance authenticity with clarity. Remove everything that doesn't add meaning while preserving what was actually said. Create the "ideal version" of what the speaker wanted to communicate - without changing their words or ideas.

Target: 25-35% length reduction while maintaining 100% fidelity to meaning.

When to Use This Skill

• Processing raw transcripts from Rev, Otter, Descript, YouTube auto-captions
• Cleaning up interview recordings or video transcripts
• Preparing spoken content for publication as articles or show notes
• Converting conversational content into readable written format

Not for: Written content that wasn't originally spoken, pre-polished articles, or scripts that are already edited.

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Workflow

Step 1: Add Document Structure

Create proper header with:

# [Guest Name]: [Compelling Episode Title]

*[Podcast Name] Episode - [Host Names]*

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## Timestamped Outline
[Add 10 chapters maximum - see guidelines below]

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## [Time] Chapter Title
[Content starts here]

Timestamped Outline Rules:

• Format: **MM:SS** - Descriptive Chapter Title
• 10 chapters maximum for 45-60 minute episodes
• Focus on major topic changes, not minute-by-minute
• Use compelling, specific titles (not generic descriptions)

Good Examples:

• ✅ 12:25 - The Turnaround: From Struggling to Thriving
• ✅ 29:08 - Why Successful Strategies Don't Spread

Poor Examples:

• ❌ 12:25 - Guest talks about their experience
• ❌ 29:08 - Discussion about the industry

Step 2: Identify and Label Speakers

Replace generic speaker markers (>>, Speaker 1, etc.) with actual names:

• Bold all speaker names: **Isaac:** Content here
• Use first names for casual podcasts, full names for professional interviews
• Be consistent throughout